Today's world is a small place. What happens across the globe can directly affect the lives of every one of us in Britain. Britain is a major player on the world's economic and political stage:

We are the world's fifth largest trading nation, exporting more per head than the USA and Japan.

We are the world's third largest overseas investor.

We attract more foreign investment into our economy than any other country except the USA and London is the world's largest currency market.

We make over 40 million trips abroad each year.

We are influential in a wide range of international bodies, including the United Nations, the European Union and the Commonwealth.

Britain, therefore, needs to be represented throughout the world. Today's Foreign Office needs diplomats and support staff who have an interest in international affairs, who understand this complex world, and who are dedicated to serving the interests of Britain and the British people. In return we can offer you a career encompassing variety, responsibility, challenge and reward. These pages tell you all about what the Foreign & Commonwealth Office does and the kind of careers we offer.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office is an accedited user of the government's 'two ticks' disability symbol, which denotes organisations which have a positive attitude towards people with disabilities. As part of our commitment under this symbol, all candidates with a disability as defined under the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) can claim a guaranteed interview if they meet the minimum requirements at the short-listing stage.

Investors in People

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK was awarded Investors in People accreditation in July 2002. As an organisation we fully support the principles of IiP and are committed to the enhancement of good management practice throughout the Service. We recognise that our people are our primary resource. Investment in their ongoing learning and development is therefore a priority.